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Description
Xylomelum Occidentale, commonly known as the Western Woody Pear or the Native Quince, is a woody shrub or small tree that belongs to the Proteaceae family. It is native to Western Australia, where it grows in sandy and well-drained soils. This plant can reach up to 5 meters in height and 2 meters in width, and it produces attractive pink flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring. The flowers are followed by large woody fruits that resemble pears, which contain edible seeds that are often used in traditional Aboriginal cuisine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Xylomelum |
Appearance
The Western Woody Pear has an attractive appearance with a dense, rounded habit and dark green leathery leaves that are arranged alternately on the stems. The leaves are up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide, and they have a distinctively serrated margin. The flowers are arranged in clusters of up to 15 and have a pink to reddish color. The fruit is a woody pear-shaped capsule that can reach up to 10 cm in length and 6 cm in width. The seeds are large and edible, with a nutty flavor.
Care Guide
The Western Woody Pear is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained sandy soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The Western Woody Pear prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Western Woody Pear is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other possible problems include scale insects and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Western Woody Pear is native to the southwest of Western Australia, where it grows in sandy and well-drained soils. It is found in heathlands, woodlands, and shrublands, and it is often associated with other Proteaceae species. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental in other parts of the world, including California and the Mediterranean region.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Western Woody Pear a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the Western Woody Pear is drought-tolerant once established. However, it still needs regular watering during the growing season.
Q: Can the seeds of the Western Woody Pear be eaten?
A: Yes, the seeds of the Western Woody Pear are edible and have a nutty flavor. They are often used in traditional Aboriginal cuisine.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Western Woody Pear?
A: You should fertilize your Western Woody Pear once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Western Woody Pear?
A: The Western Woody Pear is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Xylomelum pyriforme (Woody Pear)
- Xylomelum angustifolium (Narrow-leaved Woody Pear)
- Xylomelum occipitale (Black Woody Pear)
References
- “Xylomelum Occidentale.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), anpsa.org.au/x-occ.html.
- “Xylomelum Occidentale.” Florabase, florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/5696.
- “Xylomelum Occidentale.” Gardening Australia, gardeningaustralia.com.au/plant-profiles/xylomelum-occidentale/.
